Morning Joe This morning: Congress briefing on Venezuela
Jan 7, 2026
Discussion kicks off with Trump's controversial remarks on removing Maduro and the potential oil transfer from Venezuela to the U.S. Experts highlight the risks in oil markets and the confusion surrounding U.S. exit strategies. There’s a dive into the internal dynamics of the Trump administration, including Marco Rubio's influence. The conversation takes a turn to Greenland, weighing the absurdity of purchase talks against more serious geopolitical concerns. Finally, they explore the political implications of health care policies amid subsidy expirations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Unclear Plan For Venezuelan Oil
- The White House claims Venezuela will transfer 30–50 million barrels of oil to the U.S. and control proceeds to "benefit the people."
- Joe Scarborough and others warn the plan is vague and could destabilize oil markets and U.S. firms.
Oil Industry Pushback Likely
- U.S. oil companies may resist pumping Venezuelan oil due to market glut and worker safety concerns.
- Executives invited to the White House could push back, arguing a large supply would push prices down and pose risks.
No Clear Exit Or Governance Plan
- Critics say the administration toppled Maduro without a clear exit or governance plan and risks repeating past mistakes.
- Panelists compare the approach unfavorably to postwar Iraq mistakes and call the strategy incoherent.